How to Choose the Right Fabric for Your Custom Made Curtains

In this guide, we’ll break down how to choose the right fabric for your custom curtains, focusing on functionality, style, and durability.

Why Does Fabric Matter in Custom Curtains?

The fabric you choose defines how your curtains hang, how much light they block, and how they blend with your décor. Some fabrics are heavier and provide better insulation, while others are lightweight and ideal for letting soft light filter through. Selecting the right fabric means achieving both form and function tailored to your space.

What fabric is best for custom made curtains?

The best fabric for custom made curtains depends on your design goals and room function. For light control and insulation, heavy fabrics like velvet or thick linen are ideal. If you're after a light and airy feel, sheer voile or lightweight cotton offers a breezy effect. Always consider how the fabric complements your space's lighting and style.

1. Understand the Purpose of Each Room

Before picking a curtain fabric, consider the room's purpose. A bedroom may require block-out lining for better sleep, while a living room might benefit from natural light filtering through soft sheers.

Fabric Considerations by Room:

• Bedroom: Choose heavier materials like linen blends, velvet, or blackout polyester for privacy and darkness.

• Living Room: Lighter options like sheer or cotton allow soft lighting and maintain an open feel.

• Dining Room: Silk or jacquard offers an elegant finish.

• Nursery: Use thermal-lined curtains for temperature control and noise reduction.

2. Assess Light and Privacy Requirements

Fabric plays a major role in controlling how much light enters your space. If privacy is key, opt for lined or thicker fabrics. For rooms where light is welcome, go with translucent materials.

Which fabric offers the most privacy in custom curtains?

Heavier fabrics such as velvet, brocade, and lined linen offer the highest level of privacy for custom curtains. These materials block visibility from the outside and prevent indoor lighting from leaking out at night. They're especially effective for bedrooms, media rooms, and street-facing windows.

3. Consider Your Home’s Style and Palette

Your curtain fabric should complement your existing colour scheme and interior design. Whether you're going for minimalist, coastal, industrial, or classic, the texture and tone of your curtain fabric should align with your theme.

Fabric Finishes by Style:

• Modern: Go for matte cotton or structured linen in neutral tones.

• Classic: Rich textures like damask or silk create timeless appeal.

• Coastal: Choose breathable cotton or voile in light hues.

• Industrial: Earthy tones in natural weaves like linen or hemp.

4. Look at Fabric Weight and Drape

The weight of the fabric affects how it falls and functions. Heavy fabrics hold their shape and create a formal feel, while light fabrics offer a more casual look. Drape is how the curtain hangs—some fabrics flow fluidly, while others hold structured pleats.

What is the ideal fabric weight for custom made curtains?

Medium-weight fabrics like linen blends or polyester are ideal for most custom curtain applications. They balance ease of draping with durability and light control. Heavier fabrics suit formal spaces, while lightweight ones are best for layering or casual areas.

5. Durability and Maintenance

Not all curtain fabrics are created equal when it comes to care. For high-traffic areas or homes with kids and pets, easy-care fabrics such as polyester or poly-blends are more practical. Delicate fabrics like silk or pure linen may require professional cleaning.

Fabric Cleaning Quick Guide:

• Polyester & Blends: Machine washable, durable

• Cotton: Easy to clean, may shrink slightly

• Linen: Needs gentle wash, may wrinkle

• Silk: Dry clean only

• Velvet: Spot clean or dry clean depending on type

6. Layering Options for Flexibility

Layering curtains is not just a design trend—it’s practical. Combining sheer and block-out layers allows you to adapt your lighting and privacy needs throughout the day.

Can you layer custom made curtains?

Yes, layering custom made curtains is both functional and stylish. You can combine a sheer inner curtain with a heavier outer layer to enjoy natural light during the day and complete privacy at night. This also adds depth and texture to your window treatment.

7. Think About Climate and Insulation

In cities like Sydney, where the climate can swing from hot to cool, the fabric you choose can impact your indoor comfort. Thermal curtains made from tightly woven or insulated fabrics help regulate indoor temperatures, reduce energy bills, and provide noise reduction.

8. Don’t Overlook the Lining

A curtain’s lining can be just as important as the outer fabric. It enhances insulation, blocks light, and extends the life of your curtain by protecting it from sun damage. Depending on your needs, you can choose from blockout, thermal, or standard cotton linings.

What type of lining is best for custom curtains?

Blockout lining is the best all-rounder for custom curtains. It offers superior light control, insulation, and privacy. Thermal linings are ideal for energy efficiency, while cotton linings offer a softer finish and are better for sheer fabrics needing light protection.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Fabric for Custom Made Curtains

The right fabric can elevate your home’s style while meeting your functional needs. When selecting fabric for your custom made curtains, think beyond just colour and texture—consider light, privacy, insulation, maintenance, and how the material complements your décor. If in doubt, consult a professional curtain specialist who can recommend tailored options based on your space.

For those in Sydney, The Curtain Lab offers an expert team ready to help you design and install the perfect custom curtain solution—from fabric selection to final fit. With a wide range of high-quality fabrics and bespoke advice, your dream window dressing is just a consultation away.